Rhett Miller – A Lifetime of Riding By Night
While not as edgy as Steve Earle or as growly as the late Kris Kristofferson, I found Rhett Miller equally compelling, with interesting lyrical meshes with strong melodies. “Ellie on the Wharf” & “Come As You Are” are instantly appealing. Good little storytelling, woven in with bits of piano, gratifying musicianship that grips the ear, along with the no frills Rhett Miller vocals. He sounds like he’s singing to you – not an audience. His songcraft is structured & has a nice blend of individuality.
There are 13 warm & immediate tales of A Lifetime of Riding By Night (Drops Oct 10/ATO Records/38:07) to Rhett’s 10th solo album. This showcase was produced by the Old 97’s Murry Hammond (piano/mellotron/bass/baritone guitar/vocals) & recorded in studios in Van Nuys, CA & Washington State. Texas-born Miller is a cross between an alt-country vocalist, a folk-rocker & a tried & true balladeer. A lead singer/guitarist for the alt-country rock band Old 97’s (formed in 1993) & dabbles in solo work effectively.
The majority of Rhett’s (vocals/acoustic, nylon acoustic & 12-string acoustic guitars) songs are quite creative & original. He seldom chooses themes that have been done to death by other singer-songwriters. Songs like “The Bells of St. Mike’s” are marvelously narrated. A thin compelling thread runs through this song & it’s what’s gripping. Perhaps many of us have experienced this as well.
The songwriting is exceptional & if it weren’t for the wild strain of poignancy in each melody, Rhett’s vocals might blur into a sameness with those of several other talented singer-songwriters mining the same territory. Not so – his compositions paired with his vocal phrasing have an individuality that is incisive. The title track is superb. It’s a ballad that borders on progressive rock but never dives deep enough into that morass. Instead, the sincerity in Rhett’s voice creates a relevant performance. Understanding pacing, the next tune is more upbeat & countrified in “A Little Song,” a reprise of the short prologue opening tune. Here, the song is fully realized.
The 12-page earth-toned lyrics insert is a wise move because the words are prominent & just as important as the showcase itself. Interesting album, it has its compelling moments & entertaining ones as well. Miller found his place among troubadours a long time ago & he’s just re-establishing his lofty spot – and deservedly so.
Highlights – “Ellie on the Wharf,” “Come As You Are,” “Be Mine,” “People Are Lifted,” “The Bells of St. Mike’s,” “Time Again,” “A Lifetime of Riding By Night,” & “A Little Song.”
Musicians – Richard Hewett (drums/tambourine), Faith Shippey (bowed upright & upright bass), Annie Crawford (harmonium/piano), & Evan Felker (vocals).
Color photography & CD image courtesy of Jason Quigley. CD @ Target + https://www.rhettmiller.com/
Enjoy our previous coverage here: REVIEW: Old 97’s “American Primitive”
